Google Reviews are a powerful tool for businesses to improve their online reputation and attract new customers.
Not only that – you’ll notice that as you get more Google Reviews, your presence / ranking on Google Maps improves.
You might even snare a spot in the much sought after top 3 spots for your local area, as shown below:
Budget Car Sales, above, have noticed a large increase in web traffic, and business enquiries, once they landed a top 3 spot in the Google Business Profile listings.
Here are some effective strategies to encourage more customers to leave reviews:
1. Make it Easy for Customers to Leave Reviews
- Clear Call to Action: Include a prominent call to action on your website, receipts, or in-store signage, directing customers to leave a review on Google.
- Provide Direct Links: Make it simple for customers to find your Google Business Profile listing by providing a direct link.
- Offer Incentives: Consider offering incentives, such as discounts or giveaways, for customers who leave reviews. However, avoid offering incentives in exchange for positive reviews, as this can be considered a violation of Google’s guidelines.
2. Deliver Exceptional Customer Service
- Exceed Expectations: Go above and beyond to provide excellent customer service. Satisfied customers are more likely to leave positive reviews.
- Personalise Interactions: Make customers feel valued and appreciated by addressing them by name and remembering their preferences.
- Resolve Issues Promptly: Address any customer complaints or issues promptly and professionally. A positive resolution can turn a negative experience into a positive one.
3. Engage with Customers on Google Business Profile
- Respond to Reviews: Respond to all reviews, both positive and negative, in a timely and professional manner. Thank customers for their positive feedback and address any concerns or complaints.
- Ask for Reviews: Don’t be afraid to ask satisfied customers to leave a review. A simple and polite request can go a long way.
- Post Regular Updates: Keep your Google My Business listing up-to-date with relevant information, such as business hours, photos, and announcements.
4. Promote Your Google Reviews
- Share Reviews on Social Media: Share positive reviews on your social media channels to amplify their impact.
- Include Reviews on Your Website: Showcase your positive reviews on your website to build trust and credibility.
- Use Review Widgets: Consider using review widgets on your website to display your Google Reviews prominently. There are several excellent free widgets available, and they look great on your website:
5. Offer Incentives for Reviews
- Contests and Giveaways: Host contests or giveaways that require customers to leave a review to enter.
- Loyalty Programs: Reward loyal customers with points or discounts for leaving reviews.
- Limited-Time Offers: Offer exclusive deals or promotions to customers who leave reviews.
Bonus Ideas:
- QR code on your shop counter or back of a business card.
- Phone up clients asking for feedback, if it’s positive, send them a follow up email with your Google review link.
- Remove all of your details in your email signature block, and just place your Google Review link.
- Add your Google Review link to any forms or documentation that clients might use.
By following these strategies, you can encourage more customers to leave Google Reviews and improve your business’s online reputation.
Also – consider that some people might not use Google much, therefore find it hard to leave a Google review.
Facebook reviews are also helpful, as are other trusted platforms like Yelp and Trustpilot.
Remember, positive reviews can significantly impact your search engine rankings and attract new customers. Google is like a giant trust machine, the more trust you build in your brand, the higher you rank and the more leads you’ll get.
– Article written by Corey Hinde